Fresh concerns over internal cohesion have emerged within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, following claims of exclusion and misconduct during the party’s recent consensus process that produced Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, also known as YAYI, as its governorship candidate for 2027.
Former aspirant, Iyabo Obasanjo, raised the concerns in a detailed statement after the APC caucus meeting held on April 13, 2026, where Adeola was announced as the party’s consensus choice. While reaffirming her loyalty to the party and support for the candidate, Obasanjo said aspects of the process fell short of the inclusiveness expected of a consensus arrangement.
She maintained that she had consistently advocated consensus as a strategy to reduce tensions and ensure party unity, adding that she honoured her commitment by stepping down immediately after the announcement. “I made it clear that I would abide by the outcome of any consensus arrangement, regardless of its direction and I have remained true to that commitment,” she said.
However, she alleged that some of her supporters were denied access to the meeting venue, with two reportedly assaulted by a party functionary. “On the day of the meeting, some of my supporters were denied entry and regrettably, two were physically assaulted by a party functionary… the incident required medical attention for those affected,” she stated, describing the development as inconsistent with the party’s values.
Obasanjo also expressed concern over what she described as selective recognition of aspirants who stepped down, noting that she and another aspirant, Tunde Lemo, were present at the meeting but were not acknowledged. She argued that her campaign had built significant grassroots momentum across Ogun Central, Ogun East, and Ogun West through extensive consultations with party stakeholders.
Despite the grievances, she reiterated her commitment to the APC and pledged support for Adeola’s candidacy, as well as for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “That said, my loyalty to the APC remains unwavering. I am not defecting and I will continue to support the success of our party, including the candidacy of Senator Adeola,” she said.
She further urged party leaders to adopt a more inclusive approach going forward, stressing that unity must go beyond consensus to include recognition and respect for all stakeholders. “True unity is not achieved by consensus alone, but through recognition, respect and collective engagement,” she added.
